Lisbon, the charming capital city of Portugal, is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning coastline. However, the city also has several beautiful parks that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful spot to relax, here are some of the best parks to visit in Lisbon:
Jardim da Estrela
Jardim da Estrela is a beautiful public garden located in the Estrela neighborhood of Lisbon. Spread over an area of approximately 4 hectares, the garden is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a perfect escape from the bustling city. It was originally designed in the 19th century and has been a beloved green space in the city ever since.
The middle pond is one of Jardim da Estrela's most notable features, which is surrounded by greenery and several benches. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful moment by the water, watch the ducks swimming, or simply take in the serene surroundings. The garden also has several walking paths that meander through the lush vegetation, providing a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a jog. For families with young children, Jardim da Estrela is an excellent choice. The garden has a well-equipped playground with slides, swings, and climbing structures, providing hours of entertainment for kids. There is also a kiosk in the garden that serves refreshments and snacks, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon in the park.
One of the most unique aspects of Jardim da Estrela is its proximity to the Basílica da Estrela, a beautiful baroque church located adjacent to the garden. Visitors can explore the stunning interior of the church and then head to the garden to enjoy a peaceful moment in the shade of the trees.
Parque Eduardo VII
Parque Eduardo VII is a beautiful park located in the heart of Lisbon. Named after King Edward VII of England, the park spans an area of approximately 26 hectares and is one of the largest parks in the city. It was opened to the public in 1934 and has since been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The center walkway is a prominent element of Park Eduardo VII, which leads to the impressive 80-meter high Eduardo VII Monument. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the wide path, surrounded by manicured lawns and towering trees. The monument itself is a stunning piece of architecture and provides a great spot for taking photos and enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Another notable feature of Parque Eduardo VII is its greenhouse, which is home to a variety of exotic plants from all over the world. The greenhouse is divided into different sections, each with a unique theme and housing a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the different sections and learn about the plants and their origins. Parque Eduardo VII is also home to several fountains, including the impressive Fountain of the North Wind. This fountain is a popular spot for taking photos and provides a stunning backdrop for events and festivals that are often held in the park.
Monsanto Forest Park
Monsanto Forest Park, also known as Parque Florestal de Monsanto, is a vast green space located in the western part of Lisbon. The park covers an area of approximately 900 hectares, making it the largest green space in the city. It was established in 1934 and has since been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
One of the main features of Monsanto Forest Park is its dense forest, which covers much of the park's area. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits, and provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the forest and explore its many trails, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
For those who enjoy outdoor recreation, Monsanto Forest Park offers several activities, including mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. There are also several picnic areas and barbecue grills scattered throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic. Monsanto Forest Park is also home to several historical landmarks, including the ruins of a 14th-century castle, which provides a glimpse into the area's rich history. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about the castle's role in Lisbon's past.
Jardim Botânico de Lisboa
Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, or the Lisbon Botanical Garden, is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Lisbon. Established in 1878, the garden covers an area of approximately 4 hectares and is home to a diverse collection of plants from all over the world.
One of the main features of Jardim Botânico is its impressive greenhouse, which houses a variety of tropical and subtropical plants, including palm trees, orchids, and ferns. Visitors can explore the different sections of the greenhouse and learn about the plants and their origins.
Visitors can stroll through the different sections, enjoying the sights and smells of the different plants. Some of the sections include the rose garden, the cactus garden, and the medicinal herb garden. One of the most impressive features of Jardim Botânico is its collection of trees, which includes several ancient specimens, some of which are over 100 years old. Visitors can admire the majestic trees and learn about their unique characteristics and history.
In addition to its plants and trees, Jardim Botânico is also home to several sculptures and monuments, including a statue of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.
Parque das Nações
Parque das Nações or Park of Nations is a modern and lively neighbourhood in the eastern part of Lisbon. It was built for the 1998 World Expo and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The magnificent seaside promenade is one of the highlights of Park das Naçes, which stretches along the Tagus River. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll here and enjoy the views of the river and the surrounding area. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, offering visitors a variety of dining options. Another highlight of Parque das Nações is its modern architecture. The neighbourhood is home to several iconic buildings, including the Vasco da Gama Tower, the Lisbon Casino, and the Pavilion of Portugal. These buildings feature modern design and impressive structures, giving visitors a glimpse of Lisbon's modern side.
Parque das Nações is also home to several attractions, including the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. The aquarium houses a variety of marine animals, including sharks, rays and sea turtles, and offers visitors a unique and educational experience.
Belém Gardens
Belém Gardens is a picturesque and historic park located in the Belém neighborhood of Lisbon. The park is located along the Tagus River and offers visitors stunning views of the river and the surrounding area. The park is home to a variety of trees, plants, and flowers, including palm trees, rose gardens, and exotic plants and also to several monuments and statues, including the famous Monument to the Discoveries, which celebrates the achievements of Portuguese explorers during the Age of Discovery. The monument features larger-than-life statues of prominent figures such as Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama.
Another highlight of the park is the Belém Tower, a historic fortress that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower was built in the 16th century and served as a defensive structure for the city of Lisbon. Visitors can explore the tower and learn about its history and significance.
Tapada das Necessidades
Tapada das Necessidades is a historic park located in Lisbon, Portugal. It was originally a hunting ground for the Portuguese royal family in the 18th century and later became a public park in the 19th century.
The park features a beautiful palace, which was once the residence of the Portuguese royal family. The palace is now used for state events and is not open to the public. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon from various viewpoints in the park. The Tapada das Necessidades is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and outdoor activities, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and architecture.
Jardim Botânico da Ajuda
Jardim Botânico da Ajuda is a botanical garden situated in Lisbon's Ajuda neighborhood. It was founded in 1768 by the Marquis of Pombal with the original purpose of supporting scientific research and education, and it continues to be an important center for botanical studies today.
The garden encompasses 3.5 hectares and contains a diverse array of plant species from all over the world, including unique collections of succulents, medicinal herbs, and exotic plants. One of its main attractions is the Tropical Greenhouse, which houses many tropical and subtropical plant species.
In addition to its vast plant collections, Jardim Botânico da Ajuda also features several picturesque fountains, ponds, and other water features, making it a serene and peaceful haven in the midst of the bustling city. Locals and tourists alike visit the garden to take a leisurely walk, have a picnic on the grass, or simply relax and bask in the garden's beauty.
In conclusion, Lisbon has several beautiful parks that offer a perfect escape from the city. Whether you are looking for a peaceful spot to relax or an adventure in nature, there is something for everyone. So, be sure to add these stunning parks to your Lisbon itinerary and experience the beauty of the city in a unique way. Hope you also like our previous blogs on "What to visit in Dublin" and "Best of St.Patricks's Day".